In its presscon at Pasig today (May 30), MOVE IT said that they recognize the need to formalize the motorcycle taxi industry, which includes professionalizing habal-habal services. Previously, the LTFRB has encouraged habal-habal riders to join its pilot study for motorcycle taxis.

“Our vision is to create a safe, professionalized, and empowering environment where all our rider-partners, including habal-habal riders, can thrive,” MOVE IT General Manager Wayne Jacinto said. “We are committed to uplifting the entire sector, transforming habal-habal riders into respected professionals who contribute to a safer and more reliable transportation landscape.”

To make this possible, MOVE IT said that it will support the financial stability of its partner riders with low commission rates, insurance packages, and special deals on essential equipment like helmets. Aside from those benefits, MOVE IT also commits to providing proper training for its partner riders with comprehensive onboarding campaigns and rigorous road safety assessments to ensure that they are delivering their promised safe and high-quality service.

As for their upgraded app, MOVE IT commits to a 99.95% uptime for a seamless booking experience, especially during peak hours. This is made possible as the updated app makes use of Grab’s technology, which includes an in-app VOIP calling feature that eliminates the need for third-party communication apps and ensures the safety and privacy of its users, and GrabMaps for precise pinning for pick-up and drop-off locations.

MOVE IT also has cashless payment options for seamless transactions using debit and credit cards, and is actively working with leading e-Wallets in the Philippines to offer more payment options.

The updated app also has a Share-My-Ride, which enables users to share ride details with their loved ones, ensuring constant updates on their location during their ride. There’s also a 24/7 Safety Center that offers round-the-clock emergency assistance when needed.

“Through our enhanced app, our rider-partners will benefit from improved efficiency, enabling them to earn more, while our passengers will enjoy a user-friendly and more intuitive interface, ensuring seamless and convenient Motorcycle Taxi experiences,” Jacinto adds.